Alle-Kiski Tuesday takes

Is this a “conflict”? Allegheny County Councilman Nick Futules receives royalties from a natural gas well on property he shares with his brother in Penn Hills. And, yes, the Oakmont Democrat, who chairs the council's parks committee, is involved in discussion whether to allow the same company to drill under Deer Lakes Park. But Mr. Futules long ago disclosed his drilling deal and will not profit from any county deal. It's hard to see how there's any actual conflict, let alone a perceived one.

Careful on the roads: Dangerous driving should be at the forefront of everyone's minds this week in light of the horrific accident in Armstrong County that claimed five lives. It shows how far the repercussions of one person's bad decision can reach.

Outdoor burning: The long, cold and wet winter has turned into a dry, windy and warming spring. The result? It's brush fire season. Please be careful with outdoor burning, including those very popular backyard pits, lest you send the nearby open land into flames.

Let it shine: The lighted cross on top of the cliff over the Allegheny River in Lower Burrell has served as a source of comfort and inspiration for so many in the Alle-Kiski for almost 60 years. Thanks to the Allegheny Valley Council of Churches and its donors for keeping it lit.

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